The Deultum Amulet Discovery: Bulgaria's Earliest Christian Artifact Revealed!

A recent discovery at the National Archaeological Reserve and ancient Roman colony Deultum near the village of Debelt in Sredets municipality is believed to be the earliest indication of Christianity in Bulgarian lands, according to BTA reports. Unearthed during summer excavations in 2023, a silver amulet has garnered attention for its significance. After meticulous restoration and analysis of its inscription, the amulet is now on display at the reserve's museum, as announced by archaeologist Dora Todorova, the curator.

Found during last year's excavations led by Krasimira Kostova and Assoc. Dr. Ivo Cholakov from the National Archaeological Institute with a Museum at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (NAIM at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences), the amulet was discovered in a burial site alongside the deceased's head. Initially thought to be a silver ingot, it was later revealed to be an amulet inscribed with the names of archangels Gabriel and Michael, along with the Guardian Christ, following restoration efforts by Silvia Borisova.

Todorova explained that the term "Guardian" (ΦΥΛΑΞ) denotes both Christ's role and the amulet's purpose of protecting its wearer. Early Christians often concealed their faith, hence Christ's representation with various symbols. In this instance, the amulet was buried with the deceased, suggesting secrecy, with Christ's name inscribed in a manner forming a cross, a common feature in early Christian inscriptions.

The interpretation and dating of the amulet were conducted by renowned epigrapher Ch. Assistant Dr. Nikolay Sharankov, in collaboration with the reserve's team for reading and publishing inscriptions unearthed during excavations. According to Krasimira Kostova, director of the National Archaeological Reserve...